Apparatus and method for resistance calibration and digitization for exercise equipment

ABSTRACT

A system and method for using resistance type exercise machines is provided. One embodiment provides a tailored resistance level (TRL) that indicates a resistance level for that particular user and that particular exercise machine. The TRL, calculated for a particular user and a particular exercise machine, is based on three concurrently measured variables: the user biometric (such as heart rate), cadence of the user&#39;s effort, and measured resistance value (measured as the degrees of angular rotation of the resistance knob  104  of the exercise machine).

PRIORITY CLAIM

This application claims priority to copending U.S. Application, Ser. No. 63/029,256, filed on Jun. 16, 2020, entitled Universal Resistance Digitizer for Exercise Equipment, claims priority to copending U.S. Application, Ser. No. 63/131,848, filed on Dec. 30, 2020, entitled Resistance Digitizing System for Exercise Equipment and Associated Devices and Methods, and claims priority to copending U.S. Application, Ser. No. 63/210,572, filed on Jun. 15, 2021, entitled Resistance Digitizing System for Exercise Equipment and Associated Devices and Methods, all of which are hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Currently, there are a number of approaches for providing exercisers with relevant resistance information during their workouts. All of the current approaches possess between one and several shortcomings. Some solutions utilize resistance information that is delayed from the resistance application, which makes it difficult to accurately adjust resistance in real time. Some solutions utilize resistance in a way that makes it impossible to track performance improvements. Some solutions provide vague articulation of the amount of resistance applied, making small adjustments difficult. Some solutions have correlation with Measured-Resistance, but not causation, resulting in less helpful information. Some are very expensive, which fails to meet industry needs because most users are casual exercisers and are unwilling to commit to such a cost. Some solutions are designed for proprietary exercise equipment and cannot be used with the vast amount of pre-existing exercise equipment already in the world. Some of these solutions restrict the user to only being able to use their resistance monitoring system with certain guided workout providers. Some solutions do not account for an individual's current level of cardiovascular fitness and muscular strength, and people with better or worse physical health than the average person will find that the approach does not work for them.

Accordingly, in the arts of exercise equipment, and in particular stationary bicycles, there is a need in the arts for improved methods, apparatus, and systems for controlling the resistance that the user must overcome when using their exercising equipment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Embodiments of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device provide a system and method for monitoring, calculating, and communicating resistance information for resistance type exercise machines is provided. One embodiment provides a tailored resistance level (TRL) that indicates a resistance level for that particular user and that particular exercise machine. The TRL, calculated for a particular user and a particular exercise machine, is based on three concurrently measured variables: the user biometric (such as heart rate), cadence (the rate/repetition) of the user's effort, and measured resistance (measured as the degrees of angular rotation of the resistance knob 104 of the exercise machine).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale relative to each other. Like reference numerals designate corresponding parts throughout the several views.

FIG. 1 is a perspective diagram of an embodiment of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device secured to a stationary bicycle.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of selected components of a Measured Resistance Monitoring Device.

FIG. 3 is a flow chart describing the initiation of an example calibration process.

FIG. 4A illustrates the resistance mechanism of the exercise bicycle set at a zero or near zero resistance level.

FIG. 4B illustrates the resistance mechanism 114 of the exercise bicycle 102 set at a non-zero, moderate resistance level.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating the relationships in the measured resistances and user effort level.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart summarizing the calibration process, calibration hardening process, and calibration update process.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart summarizing the calibration process for an exercise machine, such as an exercise bicycle, when the biometric monitor (heart rate sensor) and the cadence sensor are available, and the calibration process when the sensors are not available.

FIG. 8 is a hybridized flow chart and block diagram illustrating an example calibration process of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device.

FIG. 9 is a hybridized flow chart and block diagram illustrating an example use process of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device after calibration hardening and/or calibration updating.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 is a perspective diagram of an embodiment of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 secured to a stationary bicycle 102. Briefly described, and according to one example embodiment, aspects of the present disclosure generally relate to systems and methods for communicating to a user the amount of resistance applied to their exercise equipment. According to one embodiment, resistance information is communicated to the user in the form of “Resistance Levels” which are uniquely tailored to the user's level of fitness (i.e. a Tailored Resistance Level of 22 may represent a machine-applied-resistance of 2.6 Newtons of force per pedal rotation for a 45 year old, five foot tall woman of average fitness. A Tailored Resistance Level of 22 could also represent a 5.6 Newton force per pedal rotation for a 30 year old, six foot tall male who is a competitive cyclist). The tailored resistance level (TRL) is derived from a user's level of fitness, but is defined by the degrees of rotation of the resistance knob 104.

These Tailored Resistance Levels (TRL) are calibrated using a method that monitors the user's fitness. The TRL is ultimately defined as an amount of change in the stationary bicycle's resistance mechanism (i.e. 28 degrees of rotation of a resistance knob equals 1 TRL) for a particular user. The TRL, calculated for a particular user and a particular exercise machine, is based on three concurrently measured variables: the user biometric (such as heart rate), cadence of the user's effort (interchangeably referred to herein as the rate/repetition of the user's effort), and measured resistance (measured as the degrees of angular rotation of the resistance knob 104 of the exercise machine). These systems and methods rely on quantifying the user's effort, which in one embodiment is accomplished with a heart rate monitor and cadence sensor (to determine the number of heart beats needed to turn the pedals one revolution) during a calibration process, and concurrently quantifying the amount of machine-applied-resistance.

The calibration process, in one embodiment, is accomplished using a device that mounts to, and monitors the angular rotation in degrees of an exercise bicycle's resistance knob 104. By mounting angular rotational position of the resistance knob 104, the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 becomes compatible with any piece of exercise equipment that utilizes a resistance knob 104. By utilizing a calibration method that results in a TRL, the system can be used with any piece of exercise equipment because the variability in the resistance mechanisms between different pieces of exercise equipment is standardized in the user's experienced effort in using them (i.e., a Tailored-Resistance-Level of 22 represents the same amount of effort for the user regardless of what make and model of exercise bicycle the user rides, or what type of resistance-based exercise equipment that user is using.)

Since the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 may be used with any piece of exercise equipment that utilizes a resistance knob 104, the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 can be delivered to the user as an aftermarket adapter for their exercise equipment, rather than requiring them to purchase new and expensive equipment that utilizes its own proprietary resistance levels for use with vendor-specific guided workouts. Embodiments of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 also advantageously communicates immediate, reliable, and understandable changes in the applied resistance of exercise equipment in the form of resistance levels while also providing the benefit of tailoring those levels to the user's fitness without the negative side effects of lag, variability, and lack of precision which are known limitations to using biometric feedback for exercise monitoring. Embodiments of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100, due the fact that it can be an aftermarket product, are also very cost effective which opens up resistance level monitoring capability for the casual and average user who would not be willing to spend $600-$3000 on the current solutions for resistance monitoring. Additionally, since embodiments of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 do not require any alterations to an exercise bicycle 102 or other resistance based exercise machine, the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 further appeals to the average user.

Example embodiments of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 for digitizing the resistance of exercise equipment are described in the context of applications to a stationary bicycle 102. However, embodiments of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 are not constrained to stationary bicycles. Embodiments of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 could equate rotation with resistance on any exercise equipment using a resistance knob that enables user adjustment of the machine's resistance. Other embodiments may be configured to define resistance values that are set by the user, such as a vertical change of a weight pin or the like. Examples of such alternative applications include rowing machines and ski machines. For example, cadence information on rowing machine corresponds to rate of the repetitive rowing motion by the user. Cadence information on cross country ski machine corresponds to rate of the repetitive skiing motion by the user.

The disclosed systems and methods for a Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 will become better understood through review of the following detailed description in conjunction with the figures. The detailed description and figures provide examples of the various inventions described herein. Those skilled in the art will understand that the disclosed examples may be varied, modified, and altered without departing from the scope of the inventions described herein. Many variations are contemplated for different applications and design considerations, however, for the sake of brevity, each and every contemplated variation is not individually described in the following detailed description.

Throughout the following detailed description, a variety of examples for systems and methods for a Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 are provided. Related features in the examples may be identical, similar, or dissimilar in different examples. For the sake of brevity, related features will not be redundantly explained in each example. Instead, the use of related feature names will cue the reader that the feature with a related feature name may be similar to the related feature in an example explained previously. Features specific to a given example will be described in that particular example. The reader should understand that a given feature need not be the same or similar to the specific portrayal of a related feature in any given figure or example.

The following definitions apply herein, unless otherwise indicated.

“Substantially” means to be more-or-less conforming to the particular dimension, range, shape, concept, or other aspect modified by the term, such that a feature or component need not conform exactly. For example, a “substantially cylindrical” object means that the object resembles a cylinder, but may have one or more deviations from a true cylinder.

“Comprising,” “including,” and “having” (and conjugations thereof) are used interchangeably to mean including but not necessarily limited to, and are open-ended terms not intended to exclude additional, elements or method steps not expressly recited.

Terms such as “first”, “second”, and “third” are used to distinguish or identify various members of a group, or the like, and are not intended to denote a serial, chronological, or numerical limitation.

“Coupled” means connected, either permanently or releasably, whether directly or indirectly through intervening components. “Secured to” means directly connected without intervening components.

“Communicatively coupled” means that an electronic device exchanges information with another electronic device, either wirelessly or with a wire based connector, whether directly or indirectly through a communication network 108. “Controllably coupled” means that an electronic device controls operation of another electronic device.

Returning to FIG. 1, the example exercise bicycle 102 includes a resistance knob 104, a seat 106, pedals 108, handles 110, a flywheel 112, and a resistance mechanism 114. The user, while sitting on the seat 106 and grasping the handles 110, exercises by pedaling their feet using the pedals 108. Resistance to the user's pedaling effort is generated by cooperation between the flywheel 112 and the resistance mechanism 114. Some exercise bicycles 102 employ friction resistance between the flywheel 112 and the resistance mechanism 114. Other exercises bicycle 102 may employ magnetic resistance that is generated between the flywheel 112 and the resistance mechanism 114.

The amount of resistance is defined by the position of the resistance knob 104. When the exercise bicycle 102 employs frictional resistance, a coupling shaft 116 (a threaded actuator rod) couples the resistance knob 104 to the resistance mechanism 114. Rotating the resistance knob 104 in one direction lowers the resistance mechanism 114 to increase the amount of frictional resistance force between the flywheel 112 and the resistance mechanism 114. Rotating the resistance knob 104 in the opposite second direction decreases the frictional resistance force.

When the exercise bicycle 102 employs magnetic resistance, turning the resistance knob 104 in the first direction increases the amount of electricity applied to the magnets, or by decreasing the relative distance between the magnets to each other, thereby increasing the magnetic resistance. Turning the resistance knob 104 in the opposite second direction decreases the amount of electricity applied to the magnets, or increases the relative distance between the magnets, thereby decreasing the magnetic resistance.

The Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 receives biometric information from a biometric monitor 118 and cadence information from a cadence sensor 120. The biometric information corresponds to an effort level being exerted by the user while exercising on the exercise bicycle 102. When the exercise equipment is the example exercise bicycle 102, the cadence information corresponds to a speed of rotation (revolutions per minute, or rpm) of the pedals of the exercise bicycle 102.

The biometric monitor 118 outputs biometric information corresponding to a biometric condition (state) of the user. In a preferred embodiment, the biometric monitor 118 is a heart rate monitor that communicates heart rate information (beats per minute) to the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100. The biometric information corresponds to an effort level of the user. For example, a low or resting heart rate may indicate that the user is exerting little to no effort in their pedaling. Alternatively, a higher heart rate may be indicate that the user is exerting a higher amount of effort in their pedaling. The correlation between the user's biometrics and exertion level is well known in the arts and is not described herein for brevity. Alternatively, or additionally, other biometric sensors that measure blood pressure, respiratory rate, perspiration, blood oxygen saturation may be used by other embodiments of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100. Any suitable biometric monitor 118, or combination of biometric monitors 118, may be used in the various embodiments to ascertain the level of effort being exerted by the user during their exercise.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of selected components of a Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100. The non-limiting example embodiment of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 comprises a processor system 202, a memory 204, a biometric monitor interface 206, a cadence sensor interface 208, a power source 210, at least one controller and user input/output (I/O) 212, an optional display 214, an optional wireless transceiver 216, and an angular rotation sensor 218. For example, a tailored resistance level (TRL) may be presented on the display 214 to inform the user of the current resistance level of the exercise machine. Preferably, these components reside in a small housing or enclosure that can be conveniently secures to the top of the resistance knob 104, while not impairing the ability of the user to rotate the resistance knob 104 to adjust the resistance of the exercise machine. Preferably, the housing is water resistant or water proof

The memory 204 comprises regions for storing a tailored resistance level (TRL) calibration module 220, a user monitoring module 222, user information 224, exercise machine information 226, and calibrated tailored resistance level (TRL) data 228. In some embodiments, the TRL module 220 and the user monitoring module 222 may be integrated together, and/or may be integrated with other logic. In other embodiments, some or all of these memory and other data manipulation functions may be provided by using a remote server or other electronic devices suitably connected via the Internet or otherwise to a client. In some embodiments, the memory 204 may comprise multiple memory medium, some of which may be local and others that are remote.

Other Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 embodiments may include some, or may omit some, of the above-described components. Further, additional components not described herein may be included in alternative embodiments.

The Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 further includes a means for securing 230 located on a bottom surface of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100. Preferably, the securing means 230 is a deformable material, that when forced downward onto the top surface of the resistance knob 104, forms to the shape of the resistance knob 104. Preferably, the material is a low durometer foam or other material that rebounds when the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 is removed from the resistance knob 104. The deformable material, preferably, is partially a “sticky” releasable adhesive material that secures the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 to the top of the resistance knob 104.

Alternatively, or additionally, the securing means 230 may employ other systems of securing the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 to the resistance knob 104. For example, but not limited to, one or a plurality of small suction cups may be used. Here, the user is able to secure the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 to the resistance knob 104 without tools, without a permanent adhesive, without careful alignment, or without needing any technical knowledge. When the user is done using the exercise machine, the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 is easily removed from the resistance knob 104.

In an example alternative embodiment, a clamp or anchoring system with a plurality of flexible bendable arms or tensioned arms (three to five arms, for example) may protrude downward from the base of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100. A releasable adhesive material may be optionally disposed on the bottom of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 to further secure the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 to the top of the resistance knob 104. Here, the flexible arms conform to the contour of the resistance knob 104 while the optional adhesive material adheres to the top of the resistance knob 104.

Accordingly, the securing means 230 prevents any independent angular movement of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 on the resistance knob 104. When the user turns the resistance knob 104 in the first direction to increase resistance, or turns the resistance knob 104 in the second direction to decrease resistance, the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 rotates the same amount as the resistance knob 104.

Any suitable securing means 230 may be used in the various embodiments, including clasps, sleeves, harnesses, screws, bolts, pins or the like. Preferably, the securing means 230 is configured to fit on any type, size, and/or dimension that may be encountered on the resistance knobs 104 of the many different types of exercise machines that the user may encounter. When the user is finished with their workout out, they may conveniently remove the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 from the resistance knob 104, and then conveniently secure (affix) the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 to the resistance knob 104 of another exercise machine.

The biometric monitor interface 206 is communicatively coupled to the biometric monitor 118. Some embodiments may employ a wire-based connector to communicatively couple the biometric monitor interface 206 to the biometric monitor 118 (wherein the biometric monitor 118 transmits wire-based signals 232 to the biometric monitor interface 206). Alternatively, or additionally, the biometric monitor interface 206 may be a wireless transceiver that communicatively couples the biometric monitor interface 206 to the biometric monitor 118 (wherein the biometric monitor 118 transmits wireless signals 232 to the biometric monitor interface 206). One skilled in the art appreciates that there are a variety of different types of heart rate monitoring devices or other biometric monitoring devices that are readily available. Preferably, embodiments of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 are configured to communicatively couple to many of these different types of available biometric monitors 118. The biometric monitor 118 being used by the user is identified by the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 so that the received biometric information signal can be received and translated as needed to obtain the user's biometric data, such as their heart rate. Alternatively, or additionally, some embodiments of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 include a wireless and/or a wire-based biometric monitor 118.

One skilled in the art appreciates that the exercise machine, such as the example exercise bicycle 102, may include a processor controlled display that presents the user's heart rate or other biometric information to the user while they are exercising. If the processor controller of the exercise machine incudes a wireless transceiver or a wire-based connector, the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 can be communicatively coupled to the exercise machine and receive the biometric information from the exercise bicycle 102.

The cadence sensor 120 is communicatively coupled to the cadence sensor interface 208. The cadence sensor 120 communicates cadence information corresponding to a cadence of an exercise motion of the user during the user's workout. Some embodiments may employ a wire-based connector to communicatively couple the cadence sensor 120 to the cadence sensor interface 208 (wherein the cadence sensor 120 transmits wire-based signals 232 to the cadence sensor interface 208). Alternatively, or additionally, the cadence sensor interface 208 may be a wireless transceiver that communicatively couples the cadence sensor interface 208 to the cadence sensor 120 (wherein the cadence sensor 120 transmits wireless signals 232 to the cadence sensor interface 208).

One skilled in the art appreciates that there are a variety of different types of cadence sensors 120 that are readily available and/or that are an integrated component of the exercise bicycle 102. For example, the exercise bicycle 102 may include a processor controlled display that presents the user's cadence information to the user while they are exercising. If the processor controller of the exercise machine incudes a wireless transceiver or a wire-based connector, the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 can be communicatively coupled to the exercise machine and receive the cadence information from the exercise bicycle 102.

Alternatively, or additionally, the cadence sensor 120 may be configured to attach to a moving component of the exercise machine, such as to one of the pedals 108, to the pedal axel, to the flywheel 112, or another moving component of the exercise machine. Alternatively, the cadence sensor 120 may be located in or on the user's apparel.

A micro-electromechanical systems (MEMs) device may be used by the cadence sensor 120 to detect the cadence of the user's exercise motion. In the various embodiments, the cadence of the user's exercise motion during the user's workout corresponds to the revolutions per minute of the pedals 108 of the exercise bicycle 102. Alternative embodiments may use other cadence metrics, such as a beat, a time, or a measure of rhythmical motion or activity of the user.

Preferably, embodiments of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 are configured to communicatively couple to many of these different types of available cadence sensors 120. The cadence sensor 120 being used by the user is identified by the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 so that the received cadence information signal can be received and translated as needed to obtain the user's cadence data. Alternatively, or additionally, some embodiments of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 include a wireless and/or a wire-based cadence sensor 120.

Some embodiments of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 may include a wireless transceiver that is configured to communicate wireless signals 234 to other mobile electronic devices, such as the non-limiting example smart phone 236 with a touch sensitive display 238. The transceiver 216 may be configured to communicate using Bluetooth, ANT+, Wi-Fi, cellular signals, and/or other wireless signal formats.

The controllers and user I/O 212 are buttons, switches or the like that permit the user to turn on/off the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 and provide various data input to the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100.

In some embodiments, the display 214 may be a touch sensitive display screen and the controllers and user I/O 212 are implemented as touch sensitive graphics that are presented on the display 214. Alternatively, or additionally, the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 may be controlled by a remote electronic device, such as the example smart phone 236. Here, the various control functions may be presented to the user via the touch sensitive display 238 of the smart phone 236. The user may also input data using the touch sensitive displays 214, 238.

For example, the user may input information identifying the particular exercise machine, such as the brand and/or model of the example exercise bicycle 102. The exercise machine information is stored into the exercise machine information 226 of the memory 204. Any suitable information pertaining to the exercise machine may be stored. In some embodiments, information about the exercise machine may be downloaded or accessed from a remote site and/or a remote electronic device, such as the example smart phone 236. The Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 may be used with multiple exercise machines, wherein each different exercise machine is identified by their name, make, model and/or another suitable identifier. In practice, the user informs the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 of the current exercise machine that they intent to use for their exercise. The input information is associated with that particular exercise machine. The, tailored resistance level information for that particular exercise machine can be accessed and/or stored.

In the various embodiments, the user inputs personal information to the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100. For example, the user may input their name, age, sex, height, weight, fitness condition, and/or other related user information. The input information may be saved into the user information 224 portion of the memory 204. In some instances, the user information may be input by the user via the mobile electronic device of the user (interchangeably referred to herein as the smart phone 236) or another remote electronic device that is communicatively coupled to the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100.

In some embodiments, multiple users are able to use the same Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100, wherein each different user is identified by their name or another suitable identifier. In practice, the particular user informs the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 of their identity so that the information associated with that particular user can be accessed and/or stored.

In a preferred embodiment, the power source 210 is a rechargeable or non-rechargeable battery. Alternatively, or additionally, the power source 210 may be implemented using a power cord that is coupled to a source of electrical power. Some embodiments may include a solar power panel.

When a user initially uses the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 on a new exercise machine, the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 must be calibrated for that particular user and that particular exercise machine so that the tailored resistance level (TRL) information for that particular user and that particular exercise machine can be determined. During the calibration process, described in greater detail hereinbelow, the processor system 202, executing the TRL calibration module 220 and the user monitoring module 222, receives information that is used to calculate the tailored resistance level. The user monitoring module 222 monitors and processes the received biometric information, such as but not limited to, the user's heart rate. The user monitoring module 222 also monitors and processes the cadence information, such as the pedaling speed of the user when exercising on the non-limiting example exercise bicycle 102. The processed biometric information and cadence information are input to the TRL calibration module 220 so that the tailored resistance level (TRL) can be determined for that particular user and that particular exercise machine.

Once the tailored resistance level (TRL) has been determined for a particular user and a particular exercise machine, the determined tailored resistance level information is stored into the calibrated TRL data 228 portion of memory 204. One skilled in the art appreciates that for any particular user, the user's tailored resistance level (TRL) for a plurality of different exercise machines may be determined and stored. Further, tailored resistance levels may be determined and saved for a plurality of different users who may be using the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 from time to time during their individual workouts.

In the various embodiments of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100, the amount of resistance generated in opposition to the user's effort that is created by the exercise machine is equated to an angular position of the resistance knob 104. For example, when the resistance knob 104 is rotated to a position wherein the exercise machine provides no resistance, or near zero resistance, the resistance can be defined as zero. Then, as the resistance knob 104 it rotated, the resistance (the force or resistance generated to oppose the user's efforts) increases. The change in angular rotation of the resistance knob 104 can be measured by the angular rotation sensor 218. The angular rotation sensor 218 senses angular position of the rotatable resistance knob 104 of the exercise machine. In the various embodiments, a plurality of gyroscopes and/or accelerometers in the angular rotation sensor 218 sense the angular rotation of the resistance knob 104. Other angular sensing means may be used, such as magnetometers, potentiometers, Hall effect sensors, or the like. The processor system 202, based on the input received from the plurality of gyroscopes and/or accelerometers, computes the angular change. Preferably, the plurality of gyroscopes and/or accelerometers are implemented within the angular rotation sensor 218 using micro-electromechanical systems (MEMs) device technologies. Such MEMs technologies are well known, and are not described herein for brevity. Any suitable MEMs technology, now known or later developed, may be used to determine the angular rotation of the resistance knob 104.

FIG. 3 is a flow chart 300 describing the initiation of an example calibration process. The flowchart 300 shows the architecture, functionality, and operation of a possible implementation of the software for implementing the user monitoring module 224 and the TRL calibration module 220 (FIG. 2). In this regard, each block may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the blocks may occur out of the order noted in FIG. 3, may include additional functions, and/or may omit some functions. For example, two blocks shown in succession in FIG. 3 may in fact be executed substantially concurrently, the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, or some of the blocks may not be executed in all instances, depending upon the functionality involved. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure.

Prior to initiation of the calibration process, the user secures the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 to the top surface of the resistance knob 104 of the exercise machine. The calibration process begins at block 302 wherein the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 is turned on. The user inputs their name or another suitable identifier at block 304, which may be saved into the user information 224 of memory 204. The user may then input an optional password, if desired, at block 306. In some embodiments, the user may then optionally identify a workout provider at block 308. In some embodiments, at block 310, the user may elect the options to automatically sign out of the profile after the user turns off the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100. The user also inputs the exercise machine profile, such as information identifying and characterizing the example exercise bicycle 102 (FIG. 1) at block 312. At block 314, the user has completed their profile and the exercise machine profile, and the calibration process begins.

In some embodiments, when a workout provider is identified, the workout provider may refer to a proprietary resistance level nomenclature. For example, the workout provider may instruct the user to set the resistance to “level 5.” Embodiments of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 are able to correlate the unique tailored resistance level (TRL) for that particular user and that particular exercise machine with the resistance level nomenclature used by the workout provider. The Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 can then indicate resistance levels to the user using the workout provider's resistance nomenclature. That is, in the above hypothetical example, the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 may eventually show “level 5” as the user adjusts the resistance knob 104 while working out using content provided by the workout provider.

FIG. 4A illustrates the resistance mechanism 114 of the exercise bicycle 102 set at a zero, or near zero, resistance level. In some exercise machines, when the resistance knob 104 has been rotated to its maximum extent for no resistance, there is a dead zone wherein the resistance knob 104 must be turned by some amount before a resistance is initially exerted by the resistance mechanism 114. By turning the resistance knob 104 to the point where the resistance level first occurs (wherein the resistance perceived by the user is at zero or near zero resistance), the angular rotation of the resistance knob 104 over the dead zone can be manually discounted by the user.

In an example embodiment, an initial state of the calibration process begins by providing instructions to the user to set the resistance knob 104 to a position where zero resistance, or near zero resistance, is provided by the exercise machine. The instructions may be presented to the user on the display 214 of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 and/or on the display 238 of the smart phone 236. This initial position of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 is conceptually represented by the initial angle, Øi.

Then, the user is instructed to use the exercise machine at a relatively relaxed and quick cadence for some duration (corresponding to a low user effort level). For example, the user may be instructed to pedal their exercise bicycle 102 quickly (at approximately 100 rpm, for example) for several seconds. The cadence sensor 120 detects the cadence and provides the cadence information to the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100. The biometric monitor 118 detects the user's biometric, such as the user's heart rate, and provides the monitored biometric information to the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 in real time.

When the user's biometric stabilizes at some range (an initial state biometric value acceptance criteria) for a predefined duration (an initial state biometric value acceptance criteria duration or a stabilization duration) and the user's cadence has stabilized at some range (initial state cadence value acceptance criteria) for some predefined duration (initial state acceptance criteria duration or stabilization duration), the biometric value and optionally the cadence value are saved. For example, the user's heart rate may stabilize between 70-75 beats per minute (here, the initial state biometric value acceptance criteria is five beats variation per minute) for thirty seconds (the initial state biometric value acceptance criteria duration is 30 seconds) after the user has been pedaling the exercise bicycle 102 at a cadence of 100 rpm plus or minus 2 RPM (the initial state cadence value acceptance criteria), while pedaling at the zero or near zero resistance level.

Further, the user's cadence must also stabilize within some range (initial cadence acceptance criteria duration). Here, the user's cadence must stabilize within a certain range (for example, 100 rotations per minute, rpm) for some predefined duration (initial cadence acceptance criteria duration or stabilization duration). Any suitable predefined initial state biometric value acceptance criteria, initial state biometric value acceptance criteria duration, initial state cadence value acceptance criteria, and initial state cadence acceptance criteria duration may be used for the initial state acceptance criteria in the various embodiments. The predefined duration of the initial cadence acceptance criteria duration may be the same or may be different than the predefined initial state biometric value acceptance criteria duration.

Once stabilization has been determined, the initial biometric value (such as the initial heart rate, or HRi), the initial cadence value, and zero resistance value are then known starting points of calibration. One skilled in the art appreciates that the HRi for any particular user is unique to that user. That is, the HRi for a male competitive bicycler will be quite different from the HRi of a 65 year old female of average fitness. Also, the cadence value is unique to that particular user. That is, a male competitive bicycler may have a relaxed cadence (a low user effort level) that is greater than the relaxed cadence of the 65 year old female.

In an alternative embodiment, the HRi may be replaced using a known or estimated value, such as but not limited to, the resting heart rate. Heart rate data tables are well known in the art. Resting heart rates can be estimated from these table based on a user's age, sex, and/or overall health. Based on the input user information, some embodiments may select the initial heart rate value (HRi) from a heart rate data table that is accessed by the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100. Some embodiments may optionally use the heart rate data table information to validate the detected HRi determined while the user was using their exercise machine at the zero, or near zero, resistance level.

After the initial calibration data is acquired, the user is instructed or prompted to rotate the resistance knob 104 to increase the resistance of the exercise machine to a level that requires a moderate level of effort on the part of the user. This stage of calibration is referred to as the active state of calibration. One skilled in the art appreciates that this requires a subject judgement on the part of the user. Accordingly, each user will have a unique subjective judgement on what a moderate level is for them.

In an example embodiment, the user may be instructed or prompted to “increase your resistance until it feels like a moderate workout” to initiate the active state of calibration. The message may be presented to the user on the display 214 of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 and/or on the display 238 of the smart phone 236.

FIG. 4B illustrates the resistance mechanism 114 of the exercise bicycle 102 set at a non-zero, moderate resistance level. As the resistance knob 104 is rotated, the resistance mechanism 114 is pushed downward to increase friction resistance between the resistance mechanism 114 and the flywheel 112. The resistance knob 104 is conceptually illustrated to be rotated to a new position Ør. The angle Øa is the angular difference between the position Øi and Ør, and corresponds to the change of rotation of the resistance knob 104 from the zero resistance, or near zero resistance, level to the moderate level of resistance. (One skilled in the art appreciates that the resistance knob 104 is likely to have been rotated a number of times to adjust the resistance level to the moderate exercise level, and that the angular change Øa may be measured in several hundreds of degrees, where 360° corresponds to one complete revolution of the resistance knob 104). This angular value is referred to herein as the total measured resistance of calibration (TMRc). Here, exercise machine resistance is measured in terms of the degrees of angular rotation of the resistance knob 104.

During the active state of the calibration process, as the user exercises at the moderate resistance level, their monitored biometric changes. For example, the user's heart rate gradually increases as they first begin to exercise at a moderate rate. The Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 continuously monitors the user's biometric state and cadence. At some juncture, the user's monitored biometric state and cadence stabilize within a predefined active state acceptance range over some predefined active state acceptance duration (or stabilization duration). For example, stabilization may occur when the user's heart rate does not fluctuate more than 5 beats per minute (the active state biometric value acceptance criteria) over a 45 second duration (active state biometric value acceptance criteria duration), and the user's cadence does not fluctuate more than 10 revolutions per minute (active state cadence value acceptance criteria) over a 60 second duration (the active state cadence acceptance criteria duration). Any suitable predefined active state biometric value acceptance criteria, active state biometric value acceptance criteria duration, active state cadence value acceptance criteria, and active state cadence acceptance criteria duration may be used for the active state acceptance criteria in the various embodiments. The predefined active state acceptance criteria may be the same or may be different from the predefined initial state acceptance rate criteria.

When the user's biometric and cadence have stabilized (when both the active state biometric value acceptance criteria and the active state cadence acceptance criteria are concurrently satisfied), the user's biometric value, the user's current cadence value, and the total angle value corresponding to rotation of the resistance knob 104 are recorded and saved. For example, the user's active heart rate value (HRa) and cadence (RPM) is recorded and saved along with the angular change of the resistance knob 104 (change in total measured resistance, TMRc).

Once the user's biometric data and cadence information are acquired for the zero (or near zero) resistance level and the moderate resistance level, the tailored resistance level (TRL) can be computed for that particular user and that particular exercise machine. When the biometric value is a heart rate of the user, a user effort level (UEL) is first determined in accordance with Equation (1) below:

(UEL)=[(HRa)−(HRi)/Cadence]*RLS   (1)

The UEL is based on a difference between the active biometric condition and the first or initial biometric condition, divided by the cadence. The result is divided by the RLS.

In Equation (1), HRi is the initial heart rate at the zero, or near zero, resistance level. HRa is the active heart rate at the moderate resistance level. Cadence is the value of the user's cadence at the moderate level of resistance, measured in revolutions/minute (RPM). If other types of biometric data are acquired for calibration, the user effort level (UEL) is similarly calculated in accordance with Equation (1).

The resistance level scaler (RLS) is a machine dependent or guided workout provider dependent numerical value that corresponds to the manufacture designated resistance values of their particular exercise machine that may be encountered by the user. For example, a hypothetical exercise machine may have a ten resistance levels, one to ten. Another machine may have thirty two (32) resistance levels that can be selected by the user. Yet another machine may have resistance values of −10 to 10. The resistance level scaler (RLS) is a value that is used to adjust the UELs for different exercise machines to the same base. In some embodiments, the user may specify the value of the resistance level scaler (RLS). The RLS values are stored, predefined values that are uniquely associated with the various exercise machines. The predefined RLS values may be stored in the exercise machine information 226 of the memory 204 (FIG. 2).

The user effort level (UEL) may be alternatively calculated in different manners. For example, the initial heart rate (HRi) may be replaced with an assumed resting heart rate (RHR), such as the resting heart rate. Resting heart rates are determinable from heart rate charts which indicate resting heart rate values for individuals based on age and sex. A resting heart rate value may be entered by the user when setting up their profile and/or entered in response to a prompt made to the user during calibration. Here, the UEL is determined in accordance with Equation (2), where “Age” is the age of the user.

UEL=[[(HRa)−(RHR)/(220−Age−RHR)]/Cadence]*RLS   (2)

The UEL is based on a difference between the active heart rate condition and a predefined resting heart rate, divided by (220−Age−RHR), and then divided by the cadence. The result is multiplied by the RLS.

One skilled in the art appreciates that other forms of determining the UEL may be used. For example, but not limited to, the UEL can be estimated based on the user's perceived level of exhaustion, or a range of effort from 0%-100% matching the user's experience to align with guided prompts. The estimation may then be coded into a specified number of turns of the resistance knob 104 being equal to one TRL. Other forms of determining the UEL now known or later developed are intended to be within the scope of this disclosure and to be protected by the accompanying claims.

Alternative embodiments may determine the change in total measured resistance, TMRc, in different manners. For example, the distance traveled by a brake shoe or a measured change in a magnetic field may be used to determine TMRc. Devices that measure a quantity associated with resistance to oppose the user's exercise effort may be used, such as power meters, proximity sensors, laser range finders, strain gauges, rotation monitoring devices, etc.

Next, a resistance level ratio (RLR) is determined using the UEL and the angular change of the resistance knob 104 (TMRc) in accordance with Equation (3).

RLR=TMRc/UEL   (3)

The RLR value is associated with the user and the exercise machine. The RLR value, the associated user identity, and the associated exercise machine identifier are saved into memory 204 (FIG. 2).

The tailored resistance level (TRL) is calculated based on the resistance level ratio (RLR) and the change in total measured resistance (TMRc) in accordance with Equation (4).

TRL=TMRc/RLR   (4)

The tailored resistance level (TRL), when presented to the user on the display 214, 238 indicates a resistance level setting that is the same across a variety of different exercise machines. For example, when the resistance of the exercise bicycle 102 is set to a TRL value of 10, and the resistance level or a rowing machine is set to a TRL value of 10, the user appreciates that both exercise machines are now set to the same degree of resistance that opposes the user's exercise effort.

In some embodiments, the calibration process concludes after some predefined duration of the active state. In the various embodiments, the user is aware of the initial stage of calibration wherein the user must rapidly pedal (or otherwise move). During the second active stage of the calibrations process, the user may be well into their workout using that exercise machine. The conclusion of the calibration process may be transparent (not noticeable) to the user so that the user may continue with their work out effort. Alternatively, or additionally, the user may be prompted to manually end the calibration process.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart illustrating the relationships in the measured resistances and user effort level (UEL). Block 502 illustrates that the total change in measured resistance equals the end measured resistance (TMRc) minus the beginning measured resistance. During calibration, the beginning measured resistance is preferably zero, as described above. However, the beginning measured resistance may be non-zero in some calibration processes.

Block 504 illustrates that the user's measured effort (UEL), when calculated using a heart rate biometric, is equal to the heart rate increase divided by the cadence. Alternatively, at block 506, the user may estimate how much effort they are exerting.

Block 508 illustrates that the amount of measured change per unit of resistance equals the total change in measure resistance divided by the user effort. At block 510, the number of tailored resistance levels (TRLs) currently applied equals the total change in measured resistance divided by the amount of measured change per unit of resistance.

Once a particular exercise machine has been calibrated, the user may later return to that particular exercise machine and secures their Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 to the resistance knob 104. The user turns the resistance knob 104 to the zero, or near zero, resistance level. Then, the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 is turned on or is otherwise activated. At this juncture, the current total measured resistance is zero. As the user turns the resistance knob 104 to a set the resistance to a desired resistance level, the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 measure the total change in angular rotation (measured in degrees) of the resistance knob 104. Using the stored RLR and the total measured resistance (TMR), the tailored resistance level (TRL) for that that particular user and that particular exercise machine can be computed and presented to the user.

If the user adjusts resistance during their workout, the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 detects the amount of rotation made to the resistance knob 104, thereby adjusting the total measured resistance. Then, a new tailored resistance level (TRL) value can be determined based on the detected rotational change made to the resistance knob 104.

If the user wishes to use a different exercise machine, the user simply detaches their Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 from the resistance knob 104 of the current exercise machine. The user then secures their Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 to the resistance knob 104 of the new exercise machine. The resistance level ratio (RLR) for that particular user and the new exercise machine is retrieved from memory 204, and the tailored resistance level (TRL) can then be determined.

One skilled in the art appreciates that other forms of determining the tailored resistance level (TRL) may be used. The principal point of novelty in the various embodiments is to calculate a TRL for a particular user and a particular exercise machine. The TRL is based on at least three concurrently measured variables: a user biometric (such as heart rate), a cadence of the user's effort, and a measured resistance (measured as the degrees of angular rotation of the resistance knob 104 of the exercise machine). Other forms of determining the TRL now known or later developed are intended to be within the scope of this disclosure and to be protected by the accompanying claims.

One skilled in the art appreciates that during any calibration process, the biometric state of the user may vary. That is, the initial heart rate may vary each time a calibration test is performed. Factors that might affect the biometric state of the user include sleep, consumption of caffeine, hydration, blood sugar level, diet, etc. For example, calibration tests may be performed on different days. Calibration tests may be performed at different times, or even during a single workout session where several exercise machines are calibrated (wherein the user's biometric state after calibrating later-used exercise machines may be different than their biometric state when earlier used exercise machines were calibrated).

To account for differences in the user's biometric state, a hardening process is used wherein the user performs a plurality of calibrations on the same exercise machine. In an example embodiment, five separately determined resistance level ratios (RLRs) are combined to determine a hardened RLR. For example, the five RLRs determined on different days for that particular user and that particular exercise machine may be added, and then divided by five, to determine the hardened RLR. Any suitable number of RLRs may be used to determine a hardened RLR in the various embodiments. Other statistical analysis processes may be used in the various embodiments. For example, but not limited to, weighting may be used to more heavily weight recently determined RLRs and lightly weight older determined RLRs to discount earlier determined RLRs.

Some embodiments use a countdown system that tracks the number of calibration process. Each time the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 is calibrated, the count is reduced by one. When the countdown value reaches zero, the user may use the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 without calibrating.

In some embodiments, a running average of the most current RLRs are used to determine a current hardened RLR. Here, the user's conditioning may be improving over time. As the user becomes more fit, earlier computed RLRs determined when the user was less fit may no longer be valid. Updating the hardened RLR to an updated hardened RLR then enables the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 to provide current, real time tailored resistance level (TRL) information that is applicable to the user's current state of fitness.

Some embodiments may keep a historical record of the resistance level ratios (RLR). Over time, the resistance level ratios (RLR) can be analyzed to show improvement in the user's fitness. For example, a new resistance level ratio (RLR) may be divided by an older resistance level ratio (RLR) to derive a percentage of change over some time period (a percentage over 100% corresponds to any fitness improvement).

It is appreciated that the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 can be implemented in a distributed fashion. That is, one or more of the components illustrated in FIG. 1 may be remotely located from each other. For example, the biometric monitor interface 206 may be implemented in the smart phone 236 to receive biometric information from the biometric monitor 118. Or, the biometric monitor interface 206 may be omitted, wherein a transceiver within the smart phone 236 receives biometric information from the biometric monitor 118. Alternatively, or additionally, the user may manually input the biometric information via the controllers and user I/O 212 if the biometric information is directly presented to the user by the biometric monitor 118 and/or by the exercise machine.

For example, the cadence sensor interface 208 may be implemented in the smart phone 236 to receive cadence information from the cadence sensor 120. Or, the cadence sensor interface 208 may be omitted, wherein a transceiver within the smart phone 236 directly receives cadence information from the cadence sensor 120. Alternatively, or additionally, the user may manually input the cadence information via the controllers and user I/O 212 if the cadence information is directly presented to the user by the cadence sensor 120 and/or by the exercise machine.

Alternatively, or additionally, the TRL module 220 and/or the user monitoring module 222 may reside in a memory of the smart phone 236 as an application (app). The application may be conveniently downloaded into the smart phone 236 and the user may interact with the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 via the touch sensitive display 238 of the smart phone 236.

Some embodiments may include a speaker to audibly instruct the user during calibrations and/or to inform the user of a current tailored resistance level (TRL). Alternatively, or additionally, the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 may communicate an audible format signal to the smart phone 236, which then presents the audible information to the user.

One skilled in the art appreciates that the two-step calibration process results in a linear relationship between tailored resistance levels (TRL) and the current change in total measured resistance, TMRc. Some embodiments may be configured to calibrate at other effort levels in addition to the above-described moderate effort level. For example, but not limited to, the user may be asked to calibrate at 25%, 50%, 75% and even 100% effort levels. The tailored resistance levels (TRLs) determined during a plurality of calibration stages will result in a non-linear relationship between the resistance level ratio (RLR) and the current change in total measured resistance, TMRc.

Further, the initial stage of the calibration process need not necessarily be conducted at a zero, or near zero, resistance level and/or a moderate resistance level. Rather, another resistance level may be used. For example, resistance levels of 25% and 75% may be used for calibration.

In some embodiments, the calibration process may be periodically initiated to determine a new resistance level ratio (RLR). Calibration processes may be initiated based on the number of days passed since the last calibration, total number of hours of operation of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100, number of exercise sessions, or the like. One skilled in the art appreciates that the user's fitness level changes over time, preferably for the better. In such embodiments, the resistance level ratio (RLR) may be periodically updated so that the user is presented a tailored resistance level (TRL) that remains constantly constant as their fitness improves.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart 600 summarizing the calibration process, calibration hardening process, and calibration update process. The flowchart 600 shows the architecture, functionality, and operation of a possible implementation of the software for implementing the user monitoring module 224 and the TRL calibration module 220 (FIG. 2). In this regard, each block may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the blocks may occur out of the order noted in FIG. 6, may include additional functions, and/or may omit some functions. For example, two blocks shown in succession in FIG. 6 may in fact be executed substantially concurrently, the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, or some of the blocks may not be executed in all instances, depending upon the functionality involved. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure.

At block 602, the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 is turned on. At block 604, the user selects an existing profile or creates a new profile. A new user profile is created at block 606. The process then proceeds to block 608 where a determination is made whether a calibration exists. If a previous calibration does not exist, a calibration process is done at block 610. If a calibration process exists, the process proceeds to block 612 where a determination is made whether the calibration is hardened.

If the calibration is hardened, the process proceeds to block 614 where a determination is made whether a calibration update is triggered. If the calibration update is not triggered, the process proceeds to block 616, where the user is prompted to engage the exercise machine to a minimum resistance, and then press the start button or the like to begin their workout. At block 618 rotation monitoring begins so that changes in the measured resistance are output. At block 620, resistance levels are calculated, updated, or hardened. The process ends at block 622 when the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 powers off. Presumably, the user has ended their workout at this juncture.

If at block 612 the calibration is not hardened, the process proceeds to block 624 where calibration hardening is initiated. Then, the process proceeds to block 620.

If at block 616 a calibration update is triggered, the process proceeds to block 626 where calibration updating is initiated. Then, the process proceeds to block 620.

There may be some situations where the calibration cannot be performed using biometric information and cadence information. For example, the biometric monitor 118 or the cadence sensor 120 may not be available. Some embodiments of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 may be configured to perform a manual calibration process. Here, the user may be prompted to “engage minimum resistance and press START to begin calibration.” When the user actuates the controller and/or user I/O 212, the user is prompted to maintain a fast cadence and to slowly increase resistance until it no longer feels effortless, then press complete.” Here, the user turns the resistance knob 104 until to increase resistance. The angular rotation sensor 218 senses the amount of rotation of the resistance knob 104. When the user enters “complete” via the controllers and user I/O 212, the current angular position of the resistance knob 104 is determined. Then, the change in total measured resistance, TMRc, can be determined. A predefined user effort level (UEL) value, such as 25 or the like, can be used to determine an approximated resistance level ratio (RLR) for that particular user and that particular exercise machine. The assumed UEL of 25 roughly approximates the experience of a 100 cadence rate with low but noticeable resistance.

FIG. 7 is a flow chart 700 summarizing the calibration process when the biometric monitor 118 (heart rate sensor) and the cadence sensor 120 are available, and the calibration process when the sensors 118, 120 are not available. The flowchart 700 shows the architecture, functionality, and operation of a possible implementation of the software for implementing the user monitoring module 224 and the TRL calibration module 220 (FIG. 2). In this regard, each block may represent a module, segment, or portion of code, which comprises one or more executable instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). It should also be noted that in some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the blocks may occur out of the order noted in FIG. 7, may include additional functions, and/or may omit some functions. For example, two blocks shown in succession in FIG. 7 may in fact be executed substantially concurrently, the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, or some of the blocks may not be executed in all instances, depending upon the functionality involved. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure.

The calibration process begins at block 702. At block 704, a determination is made whether the heart rate monitor 118 and cadence sensor 120 are connected to the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 and are monitoring. If the heart rate monitor 118 and cadence sensor 120 are available, the process proceeds through blocks 706 a-706 f as described hereinabove. If the heart rate monitor 118 and cadence sensor 120 are not available, the process proceeds through blocks 708 a-708 g as described hereinabove. At block 710, the resistance level ratio (RLR) subprocess sis performed. Calibration ends at block 712.

FIG. 8 is a hybridized flow chart and block diagram 800 illustrating an example calibration process of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100. The smart phone 236 guides the user through the calibration by presenting a series of instructions and results to the user. During the initial state of calibration, the display 238 a prompts the user to adjust the resistance knob 104 to a zero, or near zero, resistance value. After calibration of the initial state, the display 238 b prompts the user to adjust the resistance knob 104 to a moderate level of resistance. After conclusion of the active state calibration, the display 238 c optionally presents results of the calibration to the user. Any suitable message or prompt text may be presented to the user by the various embodiments.

FIG. 9 is a hybridized flow chart and block diagram 900 illustrating an example use process of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 after calibration hardening and/or calibration updating. The smart phone 236 guides the user through the use of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 during a workout by presenting a series of instructions and results to the user. During the initial phase of the workout, just after the user first secures the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 to the resistance knob 104, the display 238 d prompts the user to adjust the resistance knob 104 to a zero, or near zero, resistance value. As the user progresses through their workout, the display 238 e indicates to the user their current tailored resistance level (TRL) and other information if available (such as their current heart rate and/or current cadence). Any suitable message or prompt text may be presented to the user by the various embodiments.

In some embodiments, the resistance level ratio (RLR) and/or tailored resistance level (TRL) values may be stored in the cloud. Accordingly, a user may use multiple Measured Resistance Monitoring Devices 100. For example, the user may be at a first location during their exercise. At some later time, the user may be in a different location and may have access to a different Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100. For example, but not limited to, Measured Resistance Monitoring Devices 100 may be supplied by the gym where the user is exercising. The user specific resistance level ratio (RLR) and/or tailored resistance level (TRL) values could be downloaded so that that particular user may use any available Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100.

Some embodiments may be configured to communicatively couple to the exercise machine. For example, if the exercise machine has a display that provide the user various information, the tailored resistance level (TRL) information may be communicated to the exercise machine, and may then be presented on the display of the exercise machine.

Some embodiments may be configured to use a modified initial stage during calibration to account for the dead zone in the resistance mechanism 114. For example, the user may be prompted to rotate the resistance knob 104 by one full rotation (360°). If the user's cadence is above some predefined threshold, such as 102 revolutions per minute (rpm), then the user is prompted to turn the resistance knob 104 another full turn. If the cadence is below a second threshold, the user is prompted to turn the resistance knob 104 in the opposite direct by one half turn (180°). The process continues until the user feels that they are at a zero or low resistance workout level while being able to maintain a constant cadence of 100 rpm, +/−2 rpm (the initial state cadence value acceptance criteria) for twenty seconds (the initial state acceptance criteria duration).

It should be emphasized that the above-described embodiments of the Measured Resistance Monitoring Device 100 are merely possible examples of implementations of the invention. Many variations and modifications may be made to the above-described embodiments. All such modifications and variations are intended to be included herein within the scope of this disclosure and protected by the following claims.

Furthermore, the disclosure above encompasses multiple distinct inventions with independent utility. While each of these inventions has been disclosed in a particular form, the specific embodiments disclosed and illustrated above are not to be considered in a limiting sense as numerous variations are possible. The subject matter of the inventions includes all novel and non-obvious combinations and subcombinations of the various elements, features, functions and/or properties disclosed above and inherent to those skilled in the art pertaining to such inventions. Where the disclosure or subsequently filed claims recite “a” element, “a first” element, or any such equivalent term, the disclosure or claims should be understood to incorporate one or more such elements, neither requiring nor excluding two or more such elements.

Applicant(s) reserves the right to submit claims directed to combinations and subcombinations of the disclosed inventions that are believed to be novel and non-obvious. Inventions embodied in other combinations and subcombinations of features, functions, elements and/or properties may be claimed through amendment of those claims or presentation of new claims in the present application or in a related application. Such amended or new claims, whether they are directed to the same invention or a different invention and whether they are different, broader, narrower, or equal in scope to the original claims, are to be considered within the subject matter of the inventions described herein. 

Therefore, having thus described the invention, at least the following is claimed:
 1. A measured resistance monitoring device configured to provide resistance information to a user of an exercise machine, wherein the exercise machine creates a resistance force to oppose the user's efforts during a workout, and wherein the exercise machine employs a rotatable resistance knob that is rotated by the user to adjust a resistance level that defines the resistance force, the measured resistance monitoring device comprising: a biometric monitor interface communicatively coupled to a biometric monitor, wherein the biometric monitor outputs biometric information corresponding to a biometric condition of the user, and wherein the biometric information is received at the biometric monitor interface; a cadence sensor interface communicatively coupled to a cadence sensor, wherein the cadence sensor communicates cadence information corresponding to a cadence of an exercise motion of the user during the user's workout, and wherein the cadence information is received at the cadence sensor interface; an angular rotation sensor that senses angular position of the rotatable resistance knob of the exercise machine; a processor system communicatively coupled to the biometric monitor interface, the cadence sensor interface, and the angular rotation sensor; and a memory communicatively coupled to the processor system, the memory storing a tailored resistance level calibration module that is configured to determine a Resistance Level Ratio (RLR) that is based on the biometric condition of the user, the cadence, and a Total Measured Resistance of Calibration (TMRc) value corresponding to a change in the resistance force created by the exercise machine that is being used by the user during their workout.
 2. The measured resistance monitoring device of claim 1, wherein the measured resistance monitoring device begins a calibration process during a first calibration duration, wherein the user sets the rotatable resistance knob of the exercise machine to a zero resistance value; wherein the user operates the exercise machine at a first cadence, wherein the cadence sensor communicates first cadence information corresponding to the first cadence to the cadence sensor interface, and wherein the biometric monitor communicates first biometric information corresponding to a first biometric condition of the user to the biometric monitor interface, wherein the first duration ends when: the first cadence remains stabilized for at least a predefined first stabilization duration, and the first biometric condition of the user remains stabilized for at least a predefined second stabilization duration, and wherein the first biometric information corresponding to the user's first biometric condition is stored in the memory of the measured resistance monitoring device, wherein the measured resistance monitoring device concludes the calibration process during a second calibration duration, wherein the user rotates the rotatable resistance knob of the exercise machine to a non-zero resistance value so that the angular position sensor communicates Total Measured Resistance of Calibration (TMRc) to the processor system, wherein the TMRc corresponds to a change in angular position of rotation of the rotatable resistance knob of the exercise machine made by the user; wherein the user operates the exercise machine at a second cadence, wherein the cadence sensor communicates second cadence information corresponding to the second cadence to the cadence sensor interface, and wherein the biometric monitor communicates second biometric information corresponding to a second biometric condition of the user to the biometric monitor interface, wherein the second duration ends when: the second cadence remains stabilized for at least a predefined third stabilization duration, and the second biometric condition of the user remains stabilized for at least a predefined fourth stabilization duration, and wherein the angular position information, the second biometric information, and the second cadence information are stored in the memory of the measured resistance monitoring device, wherein the measured resistance monitoring device determines a User Effort Level (UEL) based on a difference between the second biometric condition and the first biometric condition, wherein the difference is divided by the second cadence, wherein the measured resistance monitoring device determines the RLR based on a ratio between the TMRc and the UEL, and wherein the RLR is stored in the memory.
 3. The measured resistance monitoring device of claim 1, wherein the difference is multiplied by a Resistance Level Scaler (RLS), wherein the RLS is a predefined scaler value associated with the exercise machine.
 4. The measured resistance monitoring device of claim 1, wherein a plurality of calibrations are conducted for the exercise machine and the user, wherein for each of the plurality of calibrations, a unique RLR defined by a ratio between the TMRc and the UEL determined for that calibration, and wherein a hardened RLR is determined based on an average of the determined unique RLRs for the plurality of calibrations.
 5. The measured resistance monitoring device of claim 1, wherein identity information of the user is associated with the RLR and is stored in the memory, wherein a plurality of different users may have unique RLRs determined for the exercise machine.
 6. The measured resistance monitoring device of claim 1, wherein identify information of the exercise machine is associated with the RLR and is stored in the memory, wherein a plurality of different exercise machines may have unique RLRs determined for the user.
 7. The measured resistance monitoring device of claim 1, wherein after calibration, the measured resistance monitoring device determines tailored resistance level (TRL) based on a ratio between a current Total Measured Resistance (TMR) and the determined RLR of the exercise machine and the user, wherein the TMR is defined by a current angle of rotation of the rotatable resistance knob of the exercise machine.
 8. The measured resistance monitoring device of claim 7, further comprising: a housing; and a display disposed on a surface of the housing and communicatively coupled to the processor system, wherein the display presents the TLR to the user.
 9. The measured resistance monitoring device of claim 8, wherein the angular position sensor resides in the housing, and further comprising: a wireless transceiver residing in the housing that is communicatively coupled to the processor system that is residing in the housing, wherein the information corresponding to the TLR is wirelessly communicated from the wireless transceiver to a mobile electronic device of the user, and wherein a display of the mobile electronic device presents the TLR to the user.
 10. The measured resistance monitoring device of claim 8, wherein the biometric condition monitor interface is a wireless transceiver residing in a mobile electronic device of the user that communicatively couples the mobile electronic device to the biometric monitor, and wherein the information corresponding to the user's biometric condition is wirelessly communicated from the biometric monitor to the biometric interface.
 11. The measured resistance monitoring device of claim 8, wherein the cadence sensor interface is a wireless transceiver residing in a mobile electronic device of the user that communicatively couples the mobile electronic device to the cadence sensor, and wherein the information corresponding to the cadence is wirelessly communicated from the cadence sensor to the cadence sensor interface.
 12. The measured resistance monitoring device of claim 7, wherein the biometric monitor interface residing in the housing is a wireless transceiver communicatively coupled to the biometric monitor, and wherein the information corresponding to the user's biometric is wirelessly communicated from the biometric monitor to the biometric monitor interface.
 13. The measured resistance monitoring device of claim 7, wherein the cadence sensor interface residing in the housing is a wireless transceiver communicatively coupled to the cadence sensor, wherein the information corresponding to the cadence is wirelessly communicated from the cadence sensor to the cadence sensor interface.
 14. The measured resistance monitoring device of claim 1, wherein the first duration and the third duration are the same, and wherein the second duration and the fourth duration are the same.
 15. The measured resistance monitoring device of claim 1, further comprising: a means for securing the measured resistance monitoring device to a top surface of the rotatable resistance knob of the exercise machine.
 16. The measured resistance monitoring device of claim 1, wherein the biometric monitor is a heart rate monitor, wherein the biometric condition is a heart rate of the user.
 17. The measured resistance monitoring device of claim 1, wherein the biometric monitor is a heart rate monitor, wherein the biometric condition is a heart rate of the user, wherein the measured resistance monitoring device begins a calibration process during a first calibration duration, wherein the user sets the rotatable resistance knob of the exercise machine to a zero resistance value; wherein the user operates the exercise machine at a first cadence for a first duration, wherein the measured resistance monitoring device concludes the calibration process during a second calibration duration, wherein the user rotates the rotatable resistance knob of the exercise machine to a non-zero resistance value so that the angular position sensor communicates Total Measured Resistance of Calibration (TMRc) to the processor system, wherein the TMRc corresponds to a change in angular position of rotation of the rotatable resistance knob of the exercise machine made by the user; wherein the user operates the exercise machine at a second cadence, wherein the cadence sensor communicates second cadence information corresponding to the second cadence to the cadence sensor interface, and wherein the biometric monitor communicates biometric information corresponding to a biometric condition of the user to the biometric monitor interface, wherein the second duration ends when the second cadence remains stabilized for at least a predefined first stabilization duration and ends when the biometric condition of the user remains stabilized for at least a predefined second stabilization duration, and wherein the angular position information, the biometric information, and the second cadence information are stored in the memory of the measured resistance monitoring device, wherein the measured resistance monitoring device determines a User Effort Level (UEL) based on a difference between the biometric condition and a predefined resting heart rate, wherein the difference is divided by the second cadence, and wherein the result is multiplied by a Resistance Level Scaler (RLS), and wherein the measured resistance monitoring device determines a Resistance Level Ratio (RLR) defined by a ratio between the TMRc and the UEL, and wherein the RLR is stored in the memory.
 18. The measured resistance monitoring device of claim 17, wherein the difference is multiplied by a Resistance Level Scaler (RLS), wherein the RLS is a predefined scaler value associated with the exercise machine.
 19. A measured resistance monitoring device configured to provide resistance information to a user of an exercise machine, wherein the exercise machine creates a resistance force to oppose the user's efforts during a workout, and wherein the exercise machine employs a rotatable resistance knob that is rotated by the user to adjust a resistance level that defines the resistance force, the measured resistance monitoring device comprising: a user input/output (I/O), wherein the user inputs an estimated user level of exertion information; a cadence sensor interface communicatively coupled to a cadence sensor, wherein the cadence sensor communicates cadence information corresponding to a cadence of an exercise motion of the user during the user's workout, and wherein the cadence information is received at the cadence sensor interface; an angular rotation sensor that senses angular position of the rotatable resistance knob of the exercise machine; a processor system communicatively coupled to the biometric monitor interface, the cadence sensor interface, and the angular rotation sensor; and a memory communicatively coupled to the processor system, the memory storing a tailored resistance level calibration module that is configured to determine a Resistance Level Ratio (RLR) that is based on the estimated user level of exertion information, the cadence, and a Total Measured Resistance of Calibration (TMRc) value corresponding to a change in the resistance force created by the exercise machine that is being used by the user during their workout.
 20. A method of providing resistance information to a user of an exercise machine, wherein the exercise machine creates a resistance force to oppose the user's efforts during a workout, and wherein the exercise machine employs a rotatable resistance knob that is rotated by the user to adjust a resistance level that defines the resistance force, the measured resistance monitoring device comprising: receiving biometric information corresponding to a biometric condition of the user, and wherein the biometric information is received at the biometric monitor interface; receiving cadence information corresponding to a cadence of an exercise motion of the user during the user's workout, and wherein the cadence information is received at the cadence sensor interface; sensing angular position of the rotatable resistance knob of the exercise machine; and determining a Resistance Level Ratio (RLR) that is based on the biometric condition of the user, the cadence, and a Total Measured Resistance of Calibration (TMRc) value corresponding to a change in the resistance force created by the exercise machine that is being used by the user during their workout. 